Itanagar, April 13 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, stated on Monday that the 'Khelo India' initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2017-18 has significantly accelerated the growth of sports throughout the nation.

During a ceremony honoring the state team that competed in the 'First Khelo India Tribal Games 2026' in Raipur from March 25 to April 3, CM Khandu remarked that Arunachal Pradesh has seen considerable advancements in sports infrastructure and facilities over the last ten years, leading to enhanced performances in national competitions.

He congratulated the athletes and coaches for their remarkable accomplishments, noting that Arunachal Pradesh achieved an impressive fifth place among 30 states and Union Territories, standing out as the top performer from the Northeast.

The contingent brought home a total of 11 medals, including six gold, one silver, and four bronze.

Chief Minister Khandu highlighted that Arunachal Pradesh has amassed over 60 medals in various Khelo India events since the program's inception, underscoring the state’s consistent ascent in the sports field.

Additionally, he mentioned that the state has notably improved its standings in national competitions, including the recent National Games in Uttarakhand, where Arunachal Pradesh ranked among the leading states from the Northeast.

Emphasizing the significance of sports in youth development, CM Khandu expressed that sports cultivate discipline, leadership, and resolve among young individuals.

He reaffirmed the state government's dedication to enhancing sports infrastructure across all districts and nurturing grassroots talent.

In his address to athletes, coaches, officials, and members of sports associations during the ceremony, Khandu described the achievement as a proud moment for the entire state.

He credited this success to the dedication, hard work, and discipline of the athletes, alongside the guidance of coaches and support staff.

While providing details about the medal distribution at the Raipur event, he shared that weightlifting contributed five gold medals, one silver, and two bronze medals, while athletics secured a gold medal in the 500 meters.

Moreover, both men's and women's football teams secured bronze medals, raising the total tally to 11.

CM Khandu acknowledged the athletes' performance as a reflection of the growing strength of sports in Arunachal Pradesh and the increasing engagement of youth in competitive events.

He also recognized the efforts of team officials, including the Chief de Mission and coaches, for their effective preparation and performance of the team.

Reiterating the importance of sports in shaping youth, he emphasized that sports foster discipline, leadership, and resilience.

The Chief Minister assured ongoing government support for improving infrastructure and nurturing talent at the grassroots level.

He also mentioned that Arunachal Pradesh is strategically preparing for upcoming national competitions, including the 39th National Games 2027 to be held in Meghalaya, where the state will host one of the events.

CM Khandu expressed confidence that Arunachal Pradesh will continue to enhance its rankings and overall performance.

He also pointed out the Union government's Mission Olympics 2028 and 2032 initiative, which aims to identify and nurture talented athletes from an early age for representation at the Olympic level.

Significant investments are being made in infrastructure development, including international-standard stadiums and integrated sports complexes throughout the state.

He stressed the need for improved coordination among the Sports Department, Sports Authority of Arunachal, and the Arunachal Olympic Association to bolster the sports ecosystem.

Furthermore, CM Khandu highlighted the state's increasing focus on adventure sports such as skiing, rafting, kayaking, and other water activities, leveraging Arunachal Pradesh's natural landscape.

In conclusion, he congratulated all medal winners, coaches, and officials, assuring that the state government will continue to provide necessary support to athletes representing Arunachal Pradesh at national and international levels.

"Your achievements have filled Arunachal Pradesh with pride. The government will persist in offering all essential support to help you reach new heights," he stated.

The flag-in ceremony was attended by Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao, along with Sports Secretary Abu Tayeng and officials from the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Sports Authority of Arunachal, Arunachal Olympic Association, and various sports organizations.